Piau: Journey to the Promised Land

by Bruce Murray

A glimpse into the life of Acadian folk hero Pierre Belliveau, known as Piau, who led his people into exile during the 1755 expulsion of the Acadians.

Acadian leader Pierre Belliveau, known as Piau, led hundreds of Acadians into the wilderness to escape the Acadian Expulsion. He vowed to lead them to the Promised Land, where they could live without fear of deportation. Over the years he became a prisoner of war, was deported to Boston, and built a castle before finally leading his people to Memramcook, New Brunswick, the Promised Land.

This historical novel, based on a true story, explores the armed and quiet resistance of the Acadian people and the Acadian figure who dedicated his life to securing the safety and well-being of his people. Told by a direct descendant of Pierre Belliveau, Bruce Murray, it is a story of suffering, courage, and hope.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction

264 pages, Paperback

Published September 19, 2017

Reviews

[Fran · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pierre Belliveau, nicknamed Piau, was an Acadian folk hero. Acadians were descendants of French colonists. They formed tight knit groups, marrying within their communities and passing down written and oral histories of their ancestors. In 1755, Piau led his people into exile to escape the Acadian Expulsion.

A young Piau spent winters in Grand Pre with his Uncle Pierre LaVerdure. Under Uncle Pierre's tutelage, Piau became fluent in reading and writing both French and English. Speaking English was an asset, Acadia had been an English colony since 1657. Piau was taught stone masonry as well. Uncle Pierre, an elder in Grand Pre, engaged in numerous debates over whether to stay and take an oath of allegiance to the British Crown or leave Acadia.

When British Lt. Gov. Caulfield was in charge of Acadia, the citizenry appeared loyal to the Crown and willing to pledge conditional allegiance. In wartime, however, the Acadians would be unwilling to bear arms against their kinfolk in surrounding French colonies.

Charles Belliveau, Piau's brother, was a master shipbuilder. He designed and built fishing and sailing vessels for the British. Using white pine, he constructed masts for British ships and repaired their sails and hulls. Charles additionally constructed fishing boats which were hidden in the woods for both fishing and available for sudden escape if warranted. When a new Lt. Gov., Lawrence Armstrong, replaced well liked Caulfield, the atmosphere became unsettling.

Armstrong demanded that Acadians pledge an unconditional oath of allegiance to the newly crowned King George ll. Acadian delegates were jailed. Arbitrary decisions sent shock waves through a community used to working together to build and harvest, share stories, songs and memories of the ancestors. Piau, a born leader, asked that his people take a leap of faith and follow him into exile to escape the 1755 expulsion, which included the commandeering of their farms and livestock by the British.

Piau's bilingual abilities and skill in masonry enabled him to become a liaison between the British and the Acadians. His knowledge of seafaring vessels was key in eluding the British. Friendship with the Mi'kmaq Indians helped Piau and his fellow travelers build wigwams for protection from the harsh winters in exile.

"Piau: Journey to the Promised Land" is an historical fiction rendering of a true Acadian hero. After enduring expulsion and eventually surrendering as prisoners of war, Piau led the Acadians to New Brunswick, a land of promise and new beginnings. Author Bruce Murray has written a captivating book about his descendant, Pierre Belliveau aka Piau.

Piau and family enjoyed the rhythms of violins, mouth harps, dancing and singing ancient melodies. Piau was recognized as having a melodious voice. Author Bruce Murray's sister, Canadian singer Anne Murray, wrote the forward for this tome. An enjoyable read.

Thank you Dundurn Press and Net Galley for the opportunity to read and review "Piau: Journey to the Promised Land".

[Sherwood Smith]

Piau, born Pierre Belliveau, is a legendary Acadian folk hero. A man of deep faith who was close to his French Catholic relatives as well as his Protestant English ones, though born and raised Huguenot, he was equally close to First Nation peoples, among whom he lived in peace during his wanderings.

Peace, alas, was not to be found with the British. After a series of tragic encounters, Piau led his people during the 1755 expulsion when some 11,500 Acadians were deported from the maritime region; after seizing a ship in order to save his family, being confined as a prisoner of war, deported to Boston, he eventually came to rest as a patriarch as well as a leader in New Brunswick, the Promised Land.

Murray is a direct descendant of Piau, and chose to fictionalize Piau’s story, writing it as autobiography. The result reminds me of old-fashioned historical novels and fictionalized history, told in stately language, with vivid, beautifully appreciative descriptions of the land in all seasons.

The various historical characters are brought to life, some good, some bad, on all sides, and always a respect and appreciation for the First Nation peoples the Acadians lived among—and were rescued by on more than one occasion.

This was an engrossing read, painful at times—the Acadians suffered badly at British hands during the early to mid eighteenth century—beautiful at others, especially the appreciation for music, art, literature, legends, Biblical tales, and especially nature. There are also descriptions of the stonemason’s art at the time.

Anyone who would like a glimpse into the history of the Acadians from an inside view should take a look at this book.

Copy provided by NetGalley

[James Fisher · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wanted to give 4 stars, but that would mean "I really liked it" which wouldn't be quite true. Yes, the book is well-written, and touches on all the high points of Acadian existence pre and post 1755. Yet, there is a certain formality, or stiffness, about the characters that held me back from really liking them. This worked well with British authority figures, but less so with the Acadian ones, which I already sympathized with. However, it is well-researched and fleshes out the drama that unfolded in a less than glorious colonial past.
http://bit.ly/piaureview "..the book certainly fills a need to tell the Acadian story."

[Annie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Narrative history is tricky. There's always a danger that the history audience will find the book lacking academic rigidity and the fiction crowd will find it too dry. Happily, this book manages to find the delicate balance between meticulous research and detail on the one hand and a well written narrative story on the other.

Despite (or possibly because of) growing up in America, I was not terribly familiar with Acadian history. Pierre Belliveau was a folk hero from the mid 18th century who led a group of persecuted francophone Acadians into exile in the Canadian wilderness in search of a better life rather than suffer under English rule.

At roughly 300 pages, the story develops steadily and evenly. I personally had some trouble keeping the characters distinct in my mind - parents, mothers and daughters & fathers and sons often shared names, which made it challenging to keep them straight sometimes.

Beautifully crafted and entertaining, I really liked this book a lot.

Four stars

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher

[Joel Belliveau · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a historian. I am also an Acadian. Moreover, my last name is Belliveau, and I am a direct descendant of Charles Belliveau, Pierre "Piau" Belliveau's brother. So naturally, I was drawn to this book like a moth to a flame. Was I biased in its favour from the outset? Perhaps. But I nonetheless maintain that this poignant story was just waiting to be told in the personal, first person voice that Bruce Murray has set it in. I’d even say it would make a fantastic movie script.

I've generally avoided novels depicting the Acadian deportation, because most of them seem to be overly ambitious. Epic tales trying to capture the whole event within one overarching narrative. Not so in this case: Murray tells the story of one specific group of people - an extended family, let by Piau as of the 1740s - as it navigates the shifting political and military situation in Nova Scotia from the 1710s to the 1770s, notably its' fight for survival during the period of the Acadian deportations (1755-1763). Throughout, the reader sits in the protagonist's shoes, so to speak, never having a clear picture of what was happening beyond his immediate surroundings, having to make decisions based on incomplete information gathered through sight or thanks to news brought by Acadian or indigenous friends. The result is very affecting.

Another quality of the novel is its non-Manichean viewpoint. Of course, the British deportations of the civil Acadian population were a horrendous affair, and the author does not attempt to paper over this truth. (British rule of Nova Scotia is most often portrayed as arbitrary.) But all protagonists and sides to this story are presented as human, imperfect yet understandable: the peace-seeking neutral Acadian peasants, their British administrators, the French troops and their native Mi’gmak allies who pressured the Acadians to assist them, as well as the freedom fighters of the Acadian resistance, such as Joseph “Beausoleil” Broussard. True fiends or antagonists, in this book, take the form of individuals; groups are not vilified as a whole.

There is one thing that might irk historians to a point: it is impossible for the reader to discern where documented historical facts end and where fiction begins in this novel. In his forward, Murray specifies that “all of the main events really happened, and all but two of the characters in the book are real”. An appendix shows Piau’s family tree and many historians and archivists are thanked in the acknowledgements. Yet one is left to wonder: which are these “main events”, and where was artistic license used? One imagines, for example, that Piau did not really share an isolated cell with the famous Beausoleil Broussard during his imprisonment, that this was simply a convenient way for the author to create a dialogue between the two very different Acadian heroes. But nothing in the book allows us to distinguish fact from fiction. However, all in all, I agree with Murray that the benefits of fictionalisation outweigh the costs, in the sense that it makes the history of ordinary people in these extraordinary times much more relatable. (Nonetheless: an index with historical references would be useful in the event of a new edition.)

I therefore only have one unqualified reservation: the author could improve his dialogue writing skills. The oral exchanges in the book often felt too formal or long-winded. Simply, Murray’s characters do not speak like normal people. Nonetheless, this is a relatively benign flaw, and after a chapter or two, the reader stops even noticing it.

All in all, this is a very enjoyable historical novel that allows readers to better understand the stakes and circumstances of the Acadian deportations.

[Rosemary Rice · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love historical novels and this was one that I highly recommend to my friends to read. I felt like I was right there with Piau as he fought to get his family to the Promise land. Bruce does an excellent job in writing that you almost feel as though it is Piau himself taking you on the remarkable journey well done.

[Schuyler Wallace · Rating 4 out of 5]

During the 17th and 18th century, Acadians, descendants of French colonists who settled in Acadia in Eastern Canada’s Maritime provinces were the unfortunate recipients of ethnic cleansing. Although the story is not as familiar as some others, it’s just as heart wrenching. “Piau,” by Bruce Murray, is the memoir of a young boy who grows up and suffers through during the purge.

Pierre Belliveau, known as Piau, is a legendary Acadian folk hero who was a leader of his people during the 1755 expulsion when some 11,500 Acadians were deported from the maritime region. Murray has written of Piau’s intent to lead them to the Promised Land and of his hardships; being confined as a prisoner of war, deportation to Boston, and eventually his landing in New Brunswick, the Promised Land.

It is a strangely quiet read, considering the violence and unrest of the time, but apparently Murray is a quiet person whom I could find next to nothing about. He is the youngest brother of the marvelous Canadian singer, Anne Murray, who writes the forward of the book. He depicts himself as a musician, writer, and entertainer and has recorded with Anne, by himself, and with others. He has apparently settled in as a high school science teacher in Nova Scotia. I was unable to uncover his motivation for writing this book.

I did, however, enjoy his writing and the book. The grammar is technically strong, his visual descriptions are pastoral rather than jolting, the technical references to Native American life is solid, and, in short, the overall effect of the book is pleasing and informative. It’s a good read about a period frequently overlooked in the world’s history.

[Marcelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent history of one branch of the Acadian Belliveau family whose story the author documents from pre- to post-deportation Acadia / Nova Scotia.

[Gaetanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Now in my early 40’s I find myself very curious about the historical origins of not only my country (the stuff they don’t teach you in history class) but also my lineage. I’m told I’m Acadian, perhaps even Acadian-Metis… I honestly don’t know much about either. In my high school History class, the Acadian exile was glossed over with a few words and there was no great detail given. It wasn’t something I thought about until I visited New Brunswick last year and was struck by the Acadian colors – everywhere. My father grew up in Nova Scotia, although I’ve only been there once – briefly – someday I would love to go back and take my time to discover and visit my heritage.

The forward to Piau – The Journey to the Promised Land is written by Canadian singer-song writer Ann Murray and sets the tone for the story to come.

If you don’t know who Pierre Belliveau is… don’t beat yourself up, neither did I. Perhaps because the novel is written by Bruce Murray, one of Belliveau’s direct descendants, it felt all the more special to read. I’m happy that Murray turned this book into a work of historical fiction. Honestly if it would have been a non-fictional account of facts, I probably wouldn’t have picked it up.

Piau’s own struggle between both with his French and English roots resonated with me immensely. I realised after seeing a certain name in the book that perhaps, deep along the branches of the family tree I could have some type of connection with Pierre Belliveau. I’d been told in the past that I was related to Germain Doucet, Sieur de La Verdure, I’ll have to investigate further.

The novel takes the shape of a journal or memoir. I loved the details in this novel, it wasn’t hard to picture myself going through the deadly winters or imagine feeling the wind on my face as I sailed off the coast.

I’m glad that Bruce Murray took the time to write Piau. I’m so happy I’ve read this important and dark part of Canadian history. Like I said before, The Acadian exile was only given a few passing sentences in my history class, almost like an afterthought. I never fully understood the depth of the Acadian exile tragedy until now.

If you enjoy history, I know you’ll love reading Piau – The Journey to the Promised Land.

[Carol McKnight · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am interested in the Acadian Expulsion as an important part of the history of Nova Scotia. This book highlights how the Acadian’s plight was decided by the English and French governments and their wars on the other side of the Atlantic. I didn’t realise that the Acadians didn’t think of themselves as French, even though French was their native language. Acadie was under English rule most often, but the Acadians would not accept an oath of allegiance to the English King; they wanted to be neutral. How often is this happening nowadays?
This is the story of Acadian leader Pierre Belliveau or Piau, who led hundreds of people into the woods to escape being deported by the British. Piau was an Acadian who spoke and wrote both French and English fluently - I think language is very important in being able to navigate different countries and peoples. Piau’s group eventually settled in what we know as Memramcook, New Brunswick.
This is a historical novel, based on a true story, which shows another side of the Acadians, those who fled their homes on foot rather than be forcibly deported onto ships and sent to somewhere unknown. Still very harrowing tales, outside in winter with survival often dependent on the friendship with the native people, the Mi’kmaq. Piau’s brother was the Acadian who led his fellow prisoners in capturing the HMS Pembroke.
“Change is inevitable, but forced change is tyrannical.” (P.153)

[Bev Simpson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this book in a charity book sale where I was volunteering. It intrigued me because my mother's ancestry is showing Acadian heritage. Although in my mind I have long associated Acadia with the Maritime provinces - especially Nova Scotia - I realize I knew little of the people's real history. Also intriguing was the fact that the book was written by Bruce Murray in 2017 with a foreword by his sister Anne Murray. Finally, adding to its attraction were the facts that it was in mint condition, a nice-looking soft cover with a good-sized print and beautiful illustrations, and it was signed by Bruce Murray for his friend 'Frenchie'. Altogether attractive it was calling to me to take it home.
I was not disappointed. It is a well-written and engaging read about the Acadians in Nova Scotia in the 18th century. The Acadians, with their French heritage and language, were a threat to the English who had defeated the French on the Plains of Abraham in 1759. The English wanted the prosperous farms the Acadians has created. To get them the English had to make their lives miserable enough to drive the farmers and homesteaders away from their homeland and into the wilderness. This is their story -nicely told- one of courage and hardship, family, friendship and treachery, community and kindness. The main character, Pierre (Piau) Belliveau (1706-1806) is an ancestor of the Murray family.

[Jo Up North · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a native Nova Scotian and lover of historical fiction, I was immediately drawn to this book. I found myself revisiting the beautiful landscapes I had experienced first-hand at Grand Pre, Annapolis Royal, Port Royal and the stunning views over St. Mary's Bay. As well, I had an irresistible need to research the locations of the unfamiliar landmarks visited by Piau and his followers.

I found the story to be engaging and eye-opening, although I agree with others that the sheer volume of characters was at times, tedious and the language seemed stilted. Perhaps it was representative of the era.

Over all, I very much enjoyed this book. If you are a Maritimer (or interested in Canadian history) I strongly urge you to read and learn from Bruce Murray's fascinating account of our Acadian roots.

[Wendell Hennan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Written in the first person by Bruce Murray based on stories from his mother, other family members and extensive research, Piau tells his amazing life story of his life as a leader of the Acadian community living in British controlled Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. An exceptional history lesson which is sadly never taught in schools beyond the poem Evangeline. The Acadians simply wanted to live on their farm land, raise their families and worship in their Catholic Church. While Canada is so admired today for its humanity our history of the treatment of Acadian and First Nations peoples is sadly not one of humanity.

[Cat · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was disappointed by this book. It is a historical look at the French Canadian leader Pierre "Piau" Belliveau. I am sure descendants of the French in Canada will find it a fascinating read. What disappointed me, was that it wasn't about their ending up in Louisiana! Petty, I know, but I really thought that's what the book would be about. It's a fascinating read, just not for me.

I received a Kindle ARC from Netgalley in exchange for a fair review.

[Brenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Canadian historical fiction about the plight of the Acadians. Well researched.

[Julie Ferguson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book as a publisher's ARC.
An excellent novel about a real-life character, Pierre Belliveau, an Acadian who led his people into exile in 1755 while seeking a better life.
Murray, who is a descendant, of Piau, has done extensive research into the times and the protagonist and brings it all together in a compelling story of hope and courage in the face of hazards, intrigues, and bad luck.
Highly recommended.